Solar power converts the light of the sun into energy. It is renewable and, unlike most fuel sources, available almost anywhere on earth. Solar energy can be used in many ways to provide heat, lighting, mechanical power and electricity.
Solar power is used throughout Canada in both private and industrial applications and is ideal for smaller-scale applications such as domestic water heating. Currently, however, it is not widely used in large-scale electrical generation for economic reasons.
In Nova Scotia, solar energy is gaining use in homes and businesses. It has also been used to power phone systems and road and flashing construction signs. Solar energy is not currently being used for larger-scale electrical generation in Nova Scotia.